Which of the following is true regarding transdermal patches?
The patch should always be placed in the same location.
The nurse can discard these medications in the trash can.
These patches can be placed anywhere on the body.
The nurse should always wear gloves when handling these medications.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Placing the patch in the same location repeatedly can lead to skin irritation, reduced absorption due to stratum corneum thickening, and localized adverse reactions. Rotation of application sites allows the skin to recover, maintains optimal drug absorption, and prevents cumulative dermal irritation.
Choice B rationale
Transdermal patches often contain significant amounts of medication, including controlled substances or potent drugs. Discarding them in the trash can poses risks of accidental exposure to others, environmental contamination, and diversion. Proper disposal protocols, such as flushing or returning to pharmacy, are crucial.
Choice C rationale
While transdermal patches are designed for systemic absorption, specific sites are recommended to optimize efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Areas with less hair, intact skin, and good circulation are preferred. Improper placement can lead to erratic absorption or local irritation, reducing therapeutic benefit.
Choice D rationale
The nurse should always wear gloves when handling transdermal patches to prevent direct skin contact with the medication. Many transdermal drugs can be absorbed through the nurse's skin, leading to unintended pharmacological effects or sensitization. Gloves provide a crucial barrier against dermal absorption.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A standing order is a pre-written medication order and protocol that applies to a specific patient population or clinical situation, allowing nurses to initiate treatment without immediate physician consultation. While it provides a framework, a daily medication is more specifically classified by its regular administration schedule, distinguishing it from general standing orders.
Choice B rationale
A routine order signifies a medication order that is carried out as prescribed until a discontinuation order or change is made. The medication is given on a regular, scheduled basis, often daily, multiple times a day, or weekly. This ensures consistent therapeutic levels for chronic conditions. Lasix 40 mg PO daily fits this description, as it is given consistently each day.
Choice C rationale
A STAT order (statim) means "immediately" and indicates that the medication must be administered as soon as possible, typically within 30 minutes of the order. This type of order is reserved for urgent situations where delay could significantly impact patient outcomes. Lasix ordered daily does not fall into this urgent category.
Choice D rationale
A PRN order (pro re nata) means "as needed.”. This type of order allows the nurse to administer medication based on the patient's symptoms or specific criteria rather than on a fixed schedule. Since Lasix is ordered "daily," it implies a fixed schedule, not an "as needed" administration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Frostbite causes localized tissue damage due to ice crystal formation and cellular dehydration, leading to impaired circulation. While frostbite can affect capillary refill, a 5-second refill time in the absence of cold exposure or other correlating symptoms makes frostbite a less likely primary consideration and requires broader assessment.
Choice B rationale
Venous insufficiency involves impaired blood return to the heart, leading to venous stasis and edema. Capillary refill primarily assesses arterial perfusion and microcirculatory integrity, not venous outflow. Therefore, venous insufficiency would not typically manifest as a prolonged capillary refill time as a primary symptom.
Choice C rationale
Normal capillary refill time in adults is typically less than 2 seconds. A 5-second capillary refill time indicates impaired peripheral perfusion, suggesting inadequate blood flow to the capillaries. This delay warrants further investigation to identify underlying causes such as dehydration, hypovolemia, or peripheral vascular compromise.
Choice D rationale
Normal capillary refill time is typically less than 2 seconds. A 5-second refill time is significantly prolonged and indicates compromised peripheral circulation. Considering this normal would lead to a missed opportunity to identify and address a potentially serious underlying physiological issue affecting tissue perfusion.
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